Last Updated:
Batting superstar Virat Kohli says he’s been praying for the victims of Bengaluru tragedy.
Virat Kohli was a part of the title celebrations. (PTI Photo)
Nearly three months after the stampede Bengaluru during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s IPL title celebration, batting superstar has broken his silence, saying what should’ve been a cherished moment within the franchise’s history turned tragic that resulted within the deaths of 11 while leaving several others injured.
“Nothing in life really prepares you for a heartbreak like June 4th. What should’ve been the happiest moment in our franchise’s history… become something tragic. I’ve been pondering of and praying for the families of those we lost… and for our fans who were injured. Your loss is an element of our story now. Together, we are going to move forward with care, respect and responsibility,” RCB posted a quote on Instagram attributing it to their former captain Kohli.
Last month, RCB had announced that as a part of its initiative ‘RCB Cares’, the franchise will provide financial assistance of Rs 25 lakh each to the families of the 11 fans who lost their lives through the stampede that broke out outside M Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4 this 12 months.
As per various reports, a crowd of nearly 2.5 lakh people gathered outside the stadium in hopes of catching a glimpse of RCB players who had landed in the town following their win over Punjab Kings in the ultimate of IPL 2025 in Ahmedabad. It was the team’s first ever title win within the history of the competition having finished because the runners-up on three occasions before.
Kohli broke down into tears soon as RCB became the champion.
The franchise has been facing the warmth, drawing severe criticism from different quarters for the way they handled the trophy celebrations with claims they were advised to not go ahead with the event.
After maintaining radio silence on social media for nearly three months, RCB acknowledged the incident and expressing grief over the lack of lives.
“Our hearts broke on June 4, 2025. We lost eleven members of the RCB family. They were a part of us. A part of what makes our city, our community & our team unique. Their absence will echo within the memories of every one among us,” said RCB in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
“No amount of support can ever fill the space they’ve left behind. But as a primary step, and with the deepest respect, RCB has prolonged Rs 25 lakh each to their families. Not only as financial aid, but as a promise of compassion, unity, and ongoing care,” it added.
Feroz Khan has been covering sports for over 12 years now and is currently working with Network18 as Principal Correspondent. He launched into his journey in 2011 and has since acquired vast experience in digital…Read More
Feroz Khan has been covering sports for over 12 years now and is currently working with Network18 as Principal Correspondent. He launched into his journey in 2011 and has since acquired vast experience in digital… Read More
Read More